Parents of Alberta kids undergoing cancer treatment told to bring their own snacks [Video]

Alberta Health Services is facing criticism from parents who have children undergoing outpatient cancer treatment over what appears to be a cost-cutting measure now requiring them to bring their own snacks, drinks and other food to the clinics.

“These kids are already going through hell,” so to no longer offer them popsicles, soda pop or other snacks “seems like such a silly, silly thing,” said Amanda Moppet-Beatch, whose 11-year-old son Easton is battling brain cancer.

She describes them as small, colourful pieces of joy on what can be a torturous day for the children and their families.

Moppet-Beatch said she learned about the new AHS policy on Friday when she took her son in for his latest round of chemotherapy.

That can last for up to eight hours and sometimes includes a lumbar puncture to check for cancer cells in his spinal fluid.

The new policy is also frustrating for …